Improved diagnosis of middle ear effusions employing the objective otoscope.

A new quantitative diagnostic otoscope presently under development supplements the conventional otoscopic examination with a quantitative pneumatic system and objective measurements derived from tympanometry. The instrument provides information to assist in the diagnosis of the presence of middle ear effusion (MEE), the middle ear pressure and tympanic membrane status during the visual examination. Uncertainty introduced by subjective judgement involved with traditional pneumatic otoscopy is eliminated enabling a more rapid and accurate diagnosis. Clinical evaluations were performed in which 92% accuracy was achieved for the diagnosis of the presence of MEE in 38 ears. The results were verified at myringotomy. The instrument is being designed for use by physicians and paraprofessionals.